Olympia, WA – According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), a significant step forward in wildlife conservation and public safety has been taken with the recent decision to close the Colockum Wildlife Area to overnight camping and campfires from June through October. This measure, announced on June 10, 2025, aims to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires in a region that has seen increasing fire danger due to dry conditions and heightened recreational use. The closure is part of a broader effort to protect the area’s diverse wildlife, preserve critical habitats, and ensure the safety of visitors engaging in outdoor activities.
The Colockum Wildlife Area, spanning over 100,000 acres in central Washington, is a haven for a variety of species, including elk, mule deer, and numerous bird species. Managed by WDFW, it serves as a vital space for conservation and offers opportunities for hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation. However, the area’s rugged terrain and arid climate make it particularly susceptible to wildfires, which can devastate ecosystems and threaten nearby communities. WDFW officials noted that recent years have seen a spike in human-caused fires, often sparked by unattended campfires or other recreational activities during the dry season.
Under the new restrictions, overnight camping and campfires are prohibited across the entire wildlife area during the specified months, which align with the peak fire danger period. Day-use activities, such as hiking and wildlife viewing, remain permitted, allowing the public to continue enjoying the natural beauty of the region while minimizing risk. WDFW has also increased signage and public outreach to inform visitors of the closure and the importance of fire prevention. Enforcement patrols will be stepped up to ensure compliance, with potential fines for those who violate the rules.
WDFW’s decision comes in response to data showing that human-caused wildfires have accounted for a significant percentage of fire incidents in the state over the past decade. The agency emphasized that protecting the Colockum Wildlife Area is not only about safeguarding ecosystems but also about maintaining access to these lands for future generations. Fires can lead to long-term closures, habitat loss, and costly restoration efforts, all of which impact both wildlife and the public’s ability to engage in recreation.
In addition to the fire risk, the closure addresses concerns about the impact of overnight camping on sensitive habitats within the wildlife area. Trampling of vegetation, litter, and disturbance to wildlife during breeding and migration seasons have been documented as ongoing issues. By limiting overnight stays, WDFW aims to reduce these pressures and support ongoing restoration projects in the area. One specific example highlighted by the agency involves the protection of shrub-steppe habitat, a critical ecosystem for species like the greater sage-grouse, which has faced population declines due to habitat fragmentation and fire damage.
To bolster the rationale behind this closure, WDFW cited a statistical insight: over 80% of wildfires in Washington between 2015 and 2020 were determined to be human-caused, with recreational activities being a leading factor during summer and early fall months. This data underscores the urgency of proactive measures like the Colockum closure to mitigate risks during the most vulnerable times of the year. The agency hopes that this temporary restriction will serve as a model for other wildlife areas facing similar challenges, balancing public access with the need for preservation.
WDFW also encourages visitors to explore alternative locations for overnight camping during the closure period, pointing to designated campgrounds outside the wildlife area that offer similar access to nature without the same level of fire risk. Educational resources on fire safety and responsible outdoor practices are being made available through the WDFW website and at trailheads to further support compliance and awareness.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of human activity, environmental health, and public safety. As climate conditions continue to exacerbate fire risks across the Pacific Northwest, agencies like WDFW are tasked with making difficult decisions to protect both natural resources and the communities that rely on them. The closure of the Colockum Wildlife Area to overnight camping and campfires is a tangible step toward achieving that balance, ensuring that this cherished landscape remains a resource for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
For more information, visit Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.